SIERRA VISTA PLANT LIST - INTRODUCTION · If you water more frequently for shorter periods of time,...

SIERRA VISTA PLANT LIST - INTRODUCTION

This low water landscaping plant list contains native and desert adapted plants that are, with a few exceptions,

hardy to at least 15 degrees F. The exceptions are indicated as marginal. Cochise County is designated as

Hardiness Zone 8 by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), and Zone 10 in the Sunset Western

Garden Book. If properly planted and maintained, the recommended plants should provide an easy care, water

efficient, and attractive property.

Not all plants on this list are available at local nurseries and outlets; however, landscapers and nurseries have

access to growers and wholesale distributors with larger inventories. Many nurseries and outlets will gladly

special-order plants not in stock. Avoid purchasing plants that are not hardy to at least 15 degrees F and that

require regular or ample irrigation.

Remember, by landscaping with plants that are not native or desert adapted, you will invite trouble and will be

wasting your money, time, and our most precious resource: water.

Watering too little can cause plants to wilt and die, but too much water starves the roots of oxygen and

encourages weed growth. Irrigation intervals are different for newly planted plants, established plants, and types

of plants (trees, shrubs, perennials, etc.). The intervals suggested below were developed for the Phoenix area

and can be used as a guide for Cochise County. Water according to this schedule and adjust as necessary.

WATERING INTERVALS FOR NEWLY PLANTED DESERT ADAPTED PLANTS

Summer Fall through Spring

Weeks 1 & 2 1-2 days 3-4 days



Weeks 7 & 8 7 days 10-14 days

After Weeks 8 Gradually extend the time between irrigations until plants are established.

It usually takes one years to establish small plants, two years for shrubs, and three years for trees.

WATERING INTERVALS FOR ESTABLISHED DESERT ADAPTED PLANTS

Spring

Summer

Fall

Winter Trees

14-30 days

7-21 days

14-30 days

30-60 days Shrubs

14-30 days

7-21 days

14-30 days

30-45 days Perennials

14-30 days

7-21 days

14-30 days

21-45 days Succulents

21-45 days

14-30 days

21-45 days

If needed – See below.

(Plant watering recommendations adapted from Landscape Watering by the Numbers, published by “Water, Use it Wisely”)

Once established, many native and desert adapted plants can survive on rainfall along with occasional

supplemental watering during extended dry periods. Even during dry periods, established succulents need very

little water, so do not water them unless you see signs of stress.

If you water more frequently for shorter periods of time, you may be encouraging shallow root growth, inviting

failure, and wasting water.

Note: Watering intervals for non-desert adapted plants are much more frequent and result in a waste of our

precious water. When you water make sure you water at the drip line to the depth of the root zone (1 foot deep

for annuals, biennials, perennials, and groundcovers, 2 feet deep for shrubs, and 3 feet deep for trees each time

you water). After one hour, a good way to test moisture depth is to insert a metal rod into the irrigated area. If

the rod pushes down easily to the required depth, then the soil is sufficiently irrigated. Water again when you

can't push the rod more than four inches into the ground. If you encounter resistance when you try to push the

probe into the soil, then you have not watered deeply enough. If you don't encounter resistance at the prescribed

depth, then you probably have over-watered. Water again when you can't push the rod more than four inches

into the ground. Deep and infrequent watering is a good practice to follow as it makes your plants more water

efficient.

Because of differing water needs, it is best to place trees and shrubs on separate irrigation valves. If the

irrigation system is already in place and on one valve, you can compensate by changing the number and/or size

of the emitters, hand-watering smaller plants that cannot survive longer frequencies or plugging all emitters

around your trees and using soaker hoses instead, and by increasing the mulch around smaller plants to slow

evaporation (keep organic mulches three to four inches from plant stems in order to avoid rot and rodent

damage).

Move the emitters out as the plant grows. Roots near tree trunks do not absorb water. After a plant is

established, water at the outer edge of the plant drip line where the feeder roots are concentrated. If it rains one-

half inch or more, skip the next interval. Water plants in sandy soil more frequently than plants in clay soil.

If you are adjusting your irrigation seasonally, then continue to do so. If you are not, then start by following the

seasonal guidelines above and reduce your landscape watering by 30 to 50%.

Learn all you can about plants. Consult Southwest gardening books, your local library, nurseries, or call the

University of Arizona Cooperative Extension (520) 458-8278 Ext. 2141) for gardening assistance. The county

website (http://ag.arizona.edu/cochise) contains a wealth of gardening information. Additionally, you can

submit gardening questions to the web site and they will be answered in a few days. Also, seven days a week

and twenty-four hours a day the Internet can be easily accessed for information on practically all phases of

gardening.

University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Water Wise Program

3/09

Key to symbols:

PLANT WATER USE: 1 – No supplemental Water - Can survive on rainfall

2 – Little – Infrequent supplemental water

3 – Moderate – Water on average every 2 weeks during the hottest months of May-August; every 3 weeks Mar-

April and September-October; and every 6 weeks November-February. (Refer to Watering Guidelines above)

PLANT TYPE:

T=Tree, S=Shrub, V=Vine, C=Cactus, Gc=Groundcover, Sc=Succulent, A=Annual (flowers first year, then

dies), B=Biennials (flowers 2nd year, then dies), P=Perennials (flowers every year): Includes some flowers that

can be used as groundcovers (Gc), Gr=Grass

spp. = Species

Grasses: More are available - Check nurseries for availability, water needs & hardiness - All grasses

flammable when dry - Almost all grasses are allergenic to some extent - Mowing grasses before they develop

seedheads will reduce their tendency to be allergenic - Grasses listed are bunch grasses unless noted.

Succulents: Hundreds are available, check with nursery for water requirements & hardiness - In general,

succulents are FR,

Agaves: Most agaves die after flowering, may take five to forty years to flower.

SUN:

FS = Full Sun, Psh = Partial Shade

EVERGREEN:

E=Evergreen, SE=Semi-evergreen, D=Deciduous

NATIVE:

N=Cochise County Native Species

FLAMMABLE:

FR = Flame Resistant, FL = Flammable

TOXIC:

* = Toxic

The information provided is for educational purposes only. We have indicated the plants that are most

commonly known as toxic; however it is possible that any of the plants on this list may cause reactions in

certain individuals. Call the Arizona Poison Control Center (1-800-362-0101, open 24 hours per day, seven

days per week) if you have a toxic or allergenic concern. Please consult a healthcare professional for advice on

any health issues.

MARGINAL:

M = Not cold hardy.

Recommended Plants for Sierra Vista

Water

UseScientific Name Common Name

Plant

Type

Mature

SizeSun Evergreen Flammable Native Toxic

Cold

HardyRemarks

2 Acacia angustissima

'Hirta'

Fern Acacia S 5' H & W FS , Psh D N May freeze to ground in winter, but will recover. Soak root

zone every month or two in summer, less or not at all in

winter.

1 - 2 Acacia berlandieri Guajillo T 5-12'H 5-

20'W

FS E FL M Thornless forms available

2 Acacia constricta White Thorn Acacia S 6 - 20' H &

W

FS D N Bark looks red in winter when wet

2 - 3 Acacia crassifolia Butterfly-leaf Acacia T 10-15'H &

W

FS , Psh E Leaves butterfly winged shaped

1 - 2 Acacia greggii Catclaw Acacia T 15-25'H

15'W

FS D N Thorns . Shrubby in drought, treelike with water.

1 - 2 Acacia rigidula Blackbrush Acacia T or S 10-15' H&W FS SE Fragrant, pale yellow flowers almost glow on a bright spring

day. To train to a single stalk, trim off suckers at base.

1 - 2 Acacia smallii Sweet Acacia T 10-35'H15-

25'W

FS D FL M Thorns

1 - 2 Acacia stenophylla Shoestring Acacia T 30' H 20'

W

FS D FL M Thornless

2 - 3

Achillea 'moonshine' Moonshine Yarrow

P 1.5' - 2' H

2' W

FS E FR Silver gray foliage, deep yellow flowers

2 - 3 Achillea filipendulina Fernleaf Yarrow P 4-5'H 3'W FS Deep green fernlike leaves. Bright yellow flowers.

Several varieties.

2 - 3 Achillea millefolium Common Yarrow P See

remarks

FS E FR Many varieties of different colors. Spreads by underground

runners.

3 Achillea serbica Serbian Yarrow P 4" H 15" W FS FR Slow growing mats of evergreen leaves covered with

numerous white flowers

3 Achillea X kellereri Keller's Yarrow P 6" H 12 ' W FS FR Large white flower clusters continue through summer

1 - 2 Achnatherum

hymenoides

Indian Rice grass Gr 1-2' H & W FS Cool season grass. Leaves green in cool weather, golden

brown in summer heat. Useful plant in desert landscapes.

3 Agastache spp. Agastache P 2-4' H & W FS , Psh Check nursery for interesting hybrids and water

requirements. Reblooms if deadheaded.

1 - 2 Agave americana Century Plant Sc 6' H 10' W FS , Psh E Variegated varieties available

1 - 2 Agave lechuguilla Lechuguilla Sc 10-20"H

8"W

FS , Psh E Note small size. Colonizes.

1 - 2 Agave palmeri Palmer's Agave Sc 3-4' H & W FS , Psh E N The most common agave found in the grasslands.

1 - 2 Agave parryi Parry's Agave Sc 2-3' W FS , Psh E N 3' rosettes. Several varieties available

1 - 2 Agave parryi var.

huachucensis

Huachuca Agave Sc 2 - 3' W FS , Psh E N Common in the Huachuca Mountains

1 - 2 Agave parviflora Agave Parviflora Sc 6"H 8"W FS , Psh E Petite plants ideal for pots or small patio areas

1 - 2 Agave scabra Rough-leaved

Agave

Sc 4' H & W FS E Wide gray green leaves rough on the back

03/31/2009 Page 1 UA Cooperative Extension Water Wise Program


Water


Plant

Type

Mature


Cold

HardyRemarks

1 - 2 Agave utahensis Agave Utah Sc 1'H 2'W FS E This species highly variable in form, size, and color. Often

forms large clumps.

1 - 2 Agave victoriae

reginae

Agave Victoria Sc Clumps 1'

W

FS , Psh E Slow growing, can stand in ground or pot 20 years before

flowering, and then die

3 Albizia julibrissin Mimosa (Silk Tree) T 40'H 60'W FS , Psh D Can be controlled to a 10 to 20 ' umbrella patio tree.

Sometimes multi stemmed.

3 Aloysia gratissima Whitebrush S 6'H 8'W FS , Psh D Flowers strongly vanilla scented

3 Aloysia wrightii Wright's Bee Bush S 5' H & W FS , Psh,

but prefers

sun

D N Blooms spring through fall

3 Alyssum montanum Mountain Gold

Alyssum

Gc 4"H 18""W FS P FR After bloming is finished, sheer off the faded flowers just

above the foliage and enjoy the texture of its low growing

gray green mat of leaves

3 Alyssum

wulfenianum

Alyssum P 1.5' W

mound

FS , Psh Prostrate & trailing with pale yellow flowers

3 Amorpha canescens Leadplant P 2-4' H 3' W FS Prune to 1' in fall to increase flowers

2 - 3 Anacyclus

depressus

Mount Atlas Daisy P 3" H 15" W FS E Silvery gray foliage with white daisy flowers. Good plant

for edging pathways.

3 Anisacanthus

quadrifidus wrightii

Desert Honeysuckle S 3' H - 4' H FS , Psh D Rabbits love new shoots, so protect. For compact shape

and prolific bloom, cut back to 1/2 to 1/3 before spring

growth. Attracts hummingbirds.

3 Anisacanthus

thurberi

Desert Honeysuckle S 4' H & W FS D * Cut to ground before spring growth to rejuvenate. Attracts

hummingbirds.

3 Arbutus unedo Strawberry Tree T or S 8 - 35' H &

W

FS , Psh E FR Non-edible fruits resemble strawberries in texture. Several

varieties.

2 - 3 Arctostaphylos

pungens

Manzanita S 6' H & W FS , Psh E N Smooth red bark and crooked branches

1 - 2 Aristida purpurea Purple Three-Awn Gr 12 to 24"H

1' W

FS N Warm and cool season grass. Purple tinted stems and

flowers.

1 - 2 Artemisia filifolia Sand Sagebrush P 4' H 5' W FS * Many branched shrub. Yellowish white flowers bloom

spring through fall .

2 - 3 Artemisia frigida Fringed Wormwood P 1.5' H & W FS E Cut back as needed

2 - 3 Artemisia spp. Artemisia S or Gc See

remarks

FS E SOME

N

Check with nursery for hardiness and size

2 - 3 Artemisia spp. Artemisia spp. P,S See

remarks

FS E SOME

N

2 - 3 Artemisia stellerana Old Woman/Dusty

Miller

P 2.5' 'H 3'W FS E Another dusty miller

2 Asclepias linaria Pineleaf Milkweed S 2' H 3' W FS E N M Delicate needle like leaves, 2" white flower clusters bloom

Mar - Dec.



Water


Plant

Type

Mature


Cold

HardyRemarks

1 - 2 Asclepias spp. Milkweeds P, some V See

remarks

FS , Psh some E SOME

N

Height and width vary by species

3 Asclepias tuberosa Butterfly Weed P 3' H 1' W FS N Long lasting cut flowers

1 - 2 Atriplex canescens Four-wing Saltbush S 3-6' H 4-8'

W

FS E FR N To keep compact, cut back by one third each year before

spring growth

1 - 2 Atriplex lentiformis Quail Bush S 3-10'H 6-

12'W

FS D FR Cut back by one third before spring growth

3 Aurinia

saxatilis/Alyssum

Basket of Gold P 8-12" H

mound

FS , Psh E Many varieties. Shear lightly to one half right after bloom.

2 - 3 Baccharis `starn' Baccharis `Starn' S 3-4' H 4-5'

W

FS E Tolerates desert heat & resists root rot. This male cultivar

that does not produce seed clusters.

2 - 3 Baccharis

sarothroides

Desert Broom S 5' H & W FS E N Purchase male plants only, females produce messy

cottony seed clusters

1 Bahia absinthifolia Bahia Gc 1' H & W FS P, E N Shallow caliche soil OK. Fast growth rate. New plants

volunteer readily.

2 Baileya multiradiata Desert Marigold A or P 1.5' H & 1'

W

FS E FR N Short lived, but freely reseeds

3 Berberis

haematocarpa

Red Barberry S 5' H & W FS , Psh E N Attractive foliage, pretty flowers, showy berries. Other

barberrys not water wise.

3 Berberis trifoliata Agarita S 6' H & W FS E Some FR Hollylike leaves. Yellow fragrant flowers Feb. thru Apr.

2 Berlandiera lyrata Chocolate Flower P 1.5 - 3' H &

W

FS E N Shear seedheads lightly to encourage more bloom. Dry for

winter bouquets.

1 - 2 Bothriochloa

barbinodis

Cane Beardgrass Gr 3'H 1.5'W FS , Psh Warm season grass. Can be scattered throughout a

desert landscape.

1 - 2 Bouteloua

curtipendula

Side-oats Grama Gr 1-2' H 2' W FS N Warm season grass. Grows from seed or division. Use in

borders or rock gardens. 2 Bouteloua gracilis Blue Grama Grass Gr 1.5' H 1' W FS N Warm season turf and pasture grass. If used as turf it is

not low water use.

2 Brahea armata Mexican Blue Palm T 40'H 25'W FS E Takes heat & wind

2 - 3 Buddleja

marrubiifolia

Wooly Butterfly

Bush

S 5' H & W FS E Small, balll shaped, orange flower clusters in spring and

summer. Prune after bloom.

1 - 2 Caesalpinia gilliesii Yellow Bird of

Paradise

T or S 5-10 'H 4'

W

FS D * Yellow flowers with red stamens. Naturalized.

1 - 2 Caesalpinia

pulcherrima

Red Bird of Paradise S 2-4' H & W FS D M Dies to ground in winter. Prune before spring growth.

Red flowers.

1 - 2 Calliandra eriophylla Fairy Duster S or Gc 1-3' H - 4'

W

FS , Psh D FR N * No irrigation needed, but blooms will last longer with some

summer water

3 Callirhoe alcaeoides Logan Calhoun P 6" H 18-

24"W

FS White flowers. Summer bloomer.

2 - 3 Callirhoe involucrata Poppy Mallow P 5" H 24-

30"W

FS Wine red flowers with a white eye all summer. Good

cascader.

3 Callistemon citrinus Bottlebrush T or S 10-15' H&W FS E M Bruised leaves smell lemony



Water


Plant

Type

Mature


Cold

HardyRemarks

2 - 3 Calylophus spp. Sundrops P 1.5 'H 2' W FS , Psh FR SOME

N

Prune just before spring growth begins. Flowers in spring

and from late summer to late fall (actually into winter).

2 - 3 Cassia wislizenii Shrubby Senna S 5-8'H 5-10-

'W

FS D N Brilliant yellow flowers in late summer

3 Cedrus deodora Deodar Cedar T 80'H 40'W FS E FL Many varieties available

3 Celtis occidentalis Common Hackberry T 50' H&W FS , Psh D Resistant to oak root fungus. Good choice for street or

lawn tree.

2 - 3 Celtis pallida Desert Hackberry T or S 10' H & W FS , Psh D FR * Good for screen, barrier or erosion planting

3 Celtis reticulata Netleaf Hackberry T 25-30 'H &

W

FS , Psh D FR N Good choice for street or lawn tree

2 - 3 Centaurea,

Artemisia, Senecio

spp.

Dusty Miller A,P or B See

remarks

FS E Common name given to many plants with lovely gray

foliage. Size varies.

2 - 3 Centranthus ruber Jupiter's Beard P 3' H & W FS , Psh Not fussy about growing conditions. Blooms late spring

through summer.

2 - 3 Ceratoides lanata Winter Fat S 1.5 - 3' H &

W

FS , Psh E N Can be used in dry arrangements

2 - 3 Cercidium Desert

Museum

Desert Museum

Palo Verde

T 20 ' H & W FS D Clean, thornless and few seedpods and litter. Prune only

to enhance form. Don't prune in summer. Hybrid.

2 - 3 Cercidium floridum Blue Palo Verde T 35'H 30'W FS D Do not prune in summer. Prune only to enhance form.

2 - 3 Cercidium

microphyllum

Littleleaf Palo Verde T 20' H & W FS D N Also called foothills palo verde Arizona state tree.

3 Cercis occidentalis Western Redbud T or S 10-18 'H &

W

FS , Psh D FR Multi stemmed. Magenta flowers in spring. Many seed

pods in summer. 'Alba' is a 3 to 6' white flowered shrub.

1 - 2 Cercocarpus spp. Mountain Mahogany T or S See

remarks

FS E or D SOME

N

Check with nursery for sizes

2 - 3 Chamaebatiaria

millefolium

Fernbush S 6-8'H&W FS D, SE,E Fragrant, light green ferny foliage. Upright white flower

clusters 4" long.

3 Chamaemelum

nobile

Chamomile P 3-12" mat FS , Psh Small yellow button flowers. Useful between stepping

stones.

2 - 3 Chilopsis linearis Desert Willow T or S 15-30'H10-

20'W

FS D FR N Flowers spring to fall, producing trumpet shaped blossoms

that attract hummingbirds. Sterile varieties not messy.

Usually multi trunked.

2 - 3 Chitalpa

tashkentensis

Chitalpa T 20-30' H&W FS D Flowers spring to fall. Chitalpa is a cross between Catalpa

and Desert Willow. Susceptible to leaf spot, but won't

harm tree. Rapid grower.

2 - 3 Chrysactinia

mexicana

Damianita S 2' H & W FS E Shear in early spring. Cut back severely if too woody.



Water


Plant

Type

Mature


Cold

HardyRemarks

1 - 2 Chrysothamnus

nauseosus

Rabbitbrush S 6 ' H 3' W FS E FR N Leaves and stems aromatic. Good for natural plantings.

C. viscidiflorus also available. Important: must have good

drainage.

2 - 3 Cissus trifoliata Arizona Grape Ivy V Climbs to

30'&2'W

FS * Evergreen only in warmest locations. Useful for covering

chain link fences or trellises.

2 Condalia lycioides,

mexicana,

spathulata

Crucillo S 8-' H - 10'

W

FS E N Good as security barrier but slow growing

2 Conoclinium

(Eupatorium) greggii

'Boothill' P 1.5 -2'H 1-

3'W

FS , Psh N First found near Tombstone. Fluffy lavender flowers late

spring to fall .

3 Convolvulus

cneorum

Bush Morning Glory S/Gc/V 2-4' H & W Psh , FS E * M

2 - 3 Cordia parvifolia Little-leaf Cordia S 4-8' H 4-10'

W

FS E FR Can be used as an informal hedge

2 - 3 Coreopsis spp. Coreopsis A or P See

remarks

FS FR Many species. Check with nursery for hardiness, size and

interesting varieties.

3 Cosmos spp. Cosmos A or P See

remarks

FS Various colors Several varieties from 1 to 7' H

2 - 3 Cotoneaster spp. Cotoneaster S or Gc See

remarks

FS D, E, or SE FR Many cotoneasters OK in our area. Check nurseries for

hardiness and size.

2 - 3 Cupressus arizonica Arizona Cypress T 40'H 20'W FS E FL N Can be used as a windbreak

2 - 3 Cupressus forbesii Tecate Cypress T 10-25'H

20'W

FS E FL Fast grower. Keep on dry side so it won't grow so fast that

it will topple.

2 - 3 Cupressus

sempervirens

Italian Cypress T 60H 10'W FS E FL Several varieties available

2 - 3 Dalea bicolor Indigo Bush/Silver

Dalea

S 3-4' H & W FS D,SE,E FR Rapid regrowth from hard winter pruning brings a quick

crop of fresh foliage. Overwatering or drought can cause

partial leaf drop.

2 - 3 Dalea capitata Golden Dalea S or Gc 8"H 3'W FS E FR Cut back in winter to generate new spring growth.

Overwatering or drought can cause partial leaf drop.

2 - 3 Dalea frutescens Black Dalea S 3' H 4' W FS E FR Prune by one half in January. Overwatering or drought can

cause partial leaf drop.

2 - 3 Dalea greggii Trailing Indigo Bush GC 1.5'H 6'W FS E FR N Mounding habit. Overwatering or drought can cause

partial leaf drop.

2 - 3 Dalea pulchra Smoke Bush/Indigo

Bush

S 8'H 5'W FS E N Spectacular spring bloom of purple flower clusters. Allow

ample room to grow.

2 - 3 Dalea purpurea Purple Prairie Clover P 18" H & W FS M Heavy summer bloomer

1 - 2 Dasylirion acrotriche Green Desert Spoon S 3-4' H - 4-5'

W

FS , Psh E Spherical clump. 10' or higher flower stalk.



Water


Plant

Type

Mature


Cold

HardyRemarks

1 - 2 Dasylirion

quadrangulatum

Mexican Grass Tree S 10-16'H &

9' W

FS , Psh E M Green leaves in fountainlike clump

1 Dasylirion texanum Texas Sotol S 5' H & W FS E 15' H flower stalk

1 - 2 Dasylirion wheeleri Desert Spoon S 3-5' H 4-5'

W

FS , Psh E N Spherical clump. In fall, 9-15' flower spikes. Prized in dry

arrangements.

2 - 3 Delosperma spp. Ice Plant P, Sc See

remarks

FS , Psh E FR Several species. Check with nurseries for size and

hardiness .

3 Dianthus

gratianopolitanus

Firewitch Gc 1' W mat FS , Psh Gray blue foliage, hot pink flowers

1 - 2 Digitaria californica Arizona Cottontop Gr 2'H 1'W FS N Warm season grass. Lovely silvery seedheads.

2 - 3 Dodonaea viscosa Green Hopbush S 10' H & 6'

W

FS , Psh E FL N Can be trained as a small tree

1 Echinocactus

grusonii

Golden Barrel

Cactus

Sc -C 3' H 2' W FS , Psh E M Best known barrel. Combines well with other cacti and

succulents.

1 Echinocereus

pectinatus varieties

Arizona or Texas

Rainbow Hedgehog

Sc -C 1' H FS , Psh E SOME

N

Alternating reddish and pale yellow horizontal bands on

stem

1 Echinocereus

triglochidiatus

Claret Cup Sc -C 6"H FS E SOME

N

One of nearly 50 hedgehogs. Showy red flowers. Forms

clumps .

3 Echinops spp. Globe Thistle P 2-4' H 2' W FS Check with nursery. Excellent for dry arrangements.

Several species.

2 - 3 Elaeagnus

angustifolia

Russian Olive T 20' H & W FS , Psh D Can be clipped to make a hedge Takes almost any kind of

punishment.

3 Elytrigia elongata

'Jose Select'

Jose Select Tall

Wheatgrass

Gr 4-5'H

1.5"W

FS Warm season grass. Grows in any soil including highly

alkaline clay.

1 - 2 Ephedra spp. Mormon Tea S See

remarks

FS E SOME

N

Erect and densely branched. Check with nursery for sizes.

2 Ericameria laricifolia Turpentine Bush S 2 - 3' H FS E FL N If the plant becomes lanky, prune it back and it will regrow

with dense foliage

2 - 3 Erigeron spp. Fleabane p See

remarks

FS , Psh E FR SOME

N

Check with nursery for sizes and hardiness

1 Eriogonum alberti Albert's Buckwheat P 1.5' H 1'W FS FL N Tiny pink flowers appear in clusters mid summer through

fall

2 - 3 Eriogonum spp. Buckwheat S See

remarks

FS E FL SOME

N

Check with nursery for size and hardiness

2 - 3 Eriogonum

umbellatum

Sulfur Flower P 1.5' H 3' W FS Prune to shape when plants are young

1 - 2 Eriogonum wrightii Wright's Buckwheat P 18" H 24"

W

FS FL N Tiny white or pink flowers appear in clusters midsummer

through fall

3 Erodium

chrysanthum

Yellow Stork's Bill P 5" H 12"W FS Primrose yellow flowers with lacy greeen foliage. Late

spring blooming.



Water


Plant

Type

Mature


Cold

HardyRemarks

2 Erythrina

flabelliformis

Coral Bean S 3-4' H - 2'

W

FS D FR N * Short spines. Seeds poisonous. Will freeze to ground in

winter, but will recover.

2 - 3 Eschscholzia

californica ssp.

mexicana

Californica Poppy A 8" H 1' W FS FR N Deep golden flowers in spring

1 - 2 Eucalyptus spp. Eucalyptus T or S See

remarks

FS E FL Check with nursery for hardiness and size. Prolonged

freezes can kill even large trees. Susceptible to eucalyptus

redgum lerp psyllid.

2 Euphorbia spp. Euphorbia A, B or P See

remarks

Some D,

Some E

SOME

N

* About 2000 species in genus . Only buy plant species that

use moderate or less water. Can be trees, shrubs,

perennials, or annuals. All euphorbias have a milky white

sap that is toxic on contact, including gopher plants and

poinsettias. Water requirements, exposure, size vary by

species.

1 Evolvulus arizonicus Arizona Blue Eyes Gc 1' H & 1' W FS N Usually grown as an annual

1 - 2 Eysenhardtia

orthocarpa

Kidneywood T or S 20' H 12'

W

FS D N Excellent tree for small spaces. White vanilla scented

flowers spring to summer.

1 Fallugia paradoxa Apache Plume S 4-6' H 5' W FS E N Pruning usually not needed. Seed heads are feathery pink,

like an Apache headdrress.

2 Fendlera rupicola False Mockorange S 4'H & 4'W FS D N Fragrant white flowers bloom in spring

1 Ferocactus wislizenii Fishhook Barrel

Cactus

Sc -C 10' H 3' W FS E N Yellow or yellow edged flowers in fall. Hooked spines like

fishhooks.

2 - 3 Forestiera

neomexicana

Desert Olive T or S 12-18'H

12'W

FS D FR Fairly fast grower. Can be trained to be a small multi

trunked tree.

1 - 2 Fouquieria

splendens

Ocotillo S 8-15'H 5-

10'W

D N Attractive long red flower clusters resemble candles. Does

not regularly have leaves.

3 Frangula californica Coffeeberry/Bucktho

rn

S 3-15' H - 8'

W

FS , Psh E N No irrigation needed when established. Check with

nursery for size & color.

2 Fraxinus greggii Little-leaf Ash T 25'H 20'W FS SE May be multi trunked. Good size ash for small yards.

3 Fraxinus velutina

'Rio Grande'

Arizona Ash T 30'H 30-

40'W

FS D FR N Rio Grande', Fan tex ash is the recommended ash for this

area. Thrives in hot, dry climates and alkaline soils.

Foliage resistant to wind burn.

2 - 3 Funastrum

cynanchoides

Climbing Milkweed V 10' long FS , Psh D N Starlike white flowers bloom May to September

2 - 3 Gaillardia spp. Gaillardia A or P 2-4' H 1

1/2' W

FS FR SOME

N

Height of the several species vary. Check with nursery.

1 - 2 Garrya wrightii Silk Tassel S 8' H 6'W FS , Psh E FR N Can be used as an informal hedge

2 - 3 Gaura lindheimeri Gaura P 2-4' H 2-3'

W

FS FR Several varieties. Remove seed bearing spikes to improve

appearance. Long bloom period.

2 - 3 Gilia spp. Gilia A See

remarks

FS SOME

N

Check nursery for sizes. Flowers late spring to early fall.

2 - 3 Gossypium thurberi Wild Cotton S 2 - 6' H 3'

W

FS , Psh D FL N Head back fast growing terminal branches to side buds for

a more compact plant



Water


Plant

Type

Mature


Cold

HardyRemarks

1 - 2 Gutierrezia sarothrae Snakeweed S 18' H 2' W FS E N Low growing shrub with July to Sept flowers can brighten a

desert garden

3 Helianthemum

nummularium

Sun Rose Gc 6" H 18" W FS , Psh E Several colors. Shear after flowering for light repeat

blooming.

3 Helianthus

maximiliana

Sante Fe Helianthus A or P 6-8' H 4' W FS Fall bloomer has large golden yellow flowers. Grows in any

soil.

2 - 3 Heliomeris (Viguiera)

spp.

Goldeneye A or P 3' H & 3' W FS SOME

N

Cut back after bloom or before new growth begins. Can be

grown from seed.

2 - 3 Hesperaloe

parviflora

Red Yucca P 3 - 4 ' H &

W

FS , Psh E Heat tolerant. Red flowers. There are yellow and yellow

red flowered forms.

2 - 3 Hyptis emoryi Desert Lavender S 3-10'H - 3-

8'W

FS E M Erect or spreading shrub. May die to roots in winter.

2 Ipomoea coccinea Scarlet Creeper Vine 8' H FS N * Bright red tubular flowers frequented by hummingbirds

3 Juglans major Arizona Walnut T 50' H & W FS D N Edible nuts have a rich flavor

2 - 3 Juniperis spp. Juniper S or Gc See

remarks

FS , Psh E FL Expect root rot if soil is waterlogged. Check with nursery

for hardiness and size. Don't plant next to lawn sprinklers

or overwater.

2 Juniperus spp. Juniper T See

remarks

FS , Psh E FL SOME

N

Check with nursery for size, water requirements &

hardiness. When junipers fail, it's usually from too much

moisture .

2 - 3 Justicia californica Chuparosa S 3'H 4'W FS , Psh SE or D M May freeze to ground in winter, but will come back quickly

in spring

3 Kniphofia uvaria Red Hot Poker P 3' H & W FS M Easy to grow. Grasslike foliage. Red & yellow spikes in

summer.

3 Koelreuteria

paniculata

Goldenrain Tree T 20 H & W FS D Can be gawky without pruning

3 Lagerstroemia spp. Crape Myrtle T or S See

remarks

FS D FR All crape myrtles hardy for our zone except L. speciosa

(Giant crape myrtle). Check with nursery for sizes and

colors .

3 Lagerstroemia spp. Crape Myrtle S See

remarks

FS D FR Several species, many varieties Check with nursery for

size and colors

3 Lantana spp. Lantana S or Gc See

remarks

FS D * All lantanas OK for our area. Many colors and varieties.

Will die to ground in winter, but should recover. Check with

nursery for size.

1 - 2 Larrea tridentata Creosote Bush S 4-6 'H - 8'

W

FS E FL N Plants in shade become leggy

3 Lavandula spp. Lavender S, A or P See

remarks

FS FR Many species and varieties available All are water wise,

but some are not hardy in our zone. Check with nursery

for hardiness and size.

1 - 2 Leonotis leonurus Lion's Tail S 4 - 6' H &

W

FS E If frost hits, cut back to live growth in spring.



Water


Plant

Type

Mature


Cold

HardyRemarks

2 - 3 Leucaena retusa Golden Ball Lead

Tree

T or S 12-20' H &

W

FS E in mild

winters, D

otherwise

Useful between cultivated garden and native desert. Best

if planted in wind-sheltered area.

2 - 3 Leucophyllum spp. Texas Ranger/Sage S See

remarks

FS E Many species. Requires little or no pruning. Check

nursery for size.

3 Limonium latifolium Blue Statice A or P 30" H 24"

W

FS , Psh Airy summer bloomer with lavender blue sprays. Good

dried cut flower.

3 Linum lewisii Western Blue Flax A or P 3' H 1' W FS FR N Easy to grow from seed. Hard to divide. Other linums OK

.

2 Lycium spp. Lycium S 6' H & W FS D N Can be used for barrier plantings

3 Macfadyena unguis-

cati

Cat's Claw V or Gc 25-40'

spread

FS , Psh E or D After bloom, cut back some stems to stimulate growth

lower down. Pinch back vigorous shoots as needed. Do 1 - 2 Mammillaria spp. Pincushions Sc -C 2 - 6" H Psh E SOME

N

Many species. Globe or cylindrical shape. Keep dry in

winter to induce bloom. Many species .

2 - 3 Melampodium

leucanthum

Blackfoot Daisy P 1' H & W FS N If straggly, cut back in fall. Grows best in decomposed

granite.

2 Muhlenbergia

capellensis

Regal Mist Gr 3' H & W FS Warm season grass. Spectacular dusky pink in the fall.

2 Muhlenbergia

capillaris

Pink Muhly Gr 3'H - 6'W FS , Psh Warm season grass. Very drought tolerant, looks better

and bigger if given some water.

2 Muhlenbergia

emersleyi

Bull Grass Gr 1.5'H 3-

4'W

FS , Psh N Warm season grass. Feathery spikes are purplish to

reddish, fading to cream with age.

2 Muhlenbergia spp. Muhly/Deer Grass Gr Size varies FS , Psh Some E in

mild winters

SOME

N

Warm season grass

2 - 3 Myoporum

parvifolium

Myoporum Gc,S 3-6" H 9' W FS E M Great ground cover. Some dieback in cold winters,

recovers rapidly.

2 - 3 Myrtus communis Myrtle S 5-6'' H 4-5'

W

FS , Psh E FR Many named selections. Check with nursery for size and

hardiness.

2 - 3 Nandina domestica Heavenly Bamboo S 3-6' H 2-3'

W

FS , Psh E FR Many varieties. All types turn crimson in fall. Cut oldest

canes to ground in spring before growth begins. Dwarf

varieties available .

2 Nassella tenuissima Mexican Feather

Grass/Needle Grass

Gr 2'H 2-3'W FS Warm season grass. Among finest textured and most

billowy looking of all grasses. Can be invasive.

3 Nepeta spp. Catmint/Catnip P See

remarks

FS , Psh Great for attracting every cat in the neighborhood. Many

varieties, check for height, width and hardiness.

2 - 3 Nerium oleander Oleander S 3-20'H 4-

12'W

FS E FR * Routine pruning not necessary. Do not burn wood, smoke

may cause skin irritation.

2 Nolina matapensis Tree Bear Grass P 10-25'H

10'W

FS Allow ample space for growth. Lush looking species.

1 - 2 Nolina microcarpa Bear Grass P 3'H 6'W FS N Strong vertical silhouette Good for dry landscapes.

2 - 3 Oenothera spp. Evening Primrose P See

remarks

FS , Psh FR SOME

N

Open during day. Stems die back in winter. All except

Oenothera elata hookeri OK for our area. Sizes variable,

check with nursery.



Water


Plant

Type

Mature


Cold

HardyRemarks

2 - 3 Olea europaea Olive 'Swan Hill' T 25-30' H&W FS E M This is a sterile variety. Non sterile varieties stain

pavement and lawns and are allergenic.

1 Opuntia basilaris Beavertail Cactus Sc -C 1' H 4' W FS E Purplish pads. Very common in Arizona landscapes.

1 Opuntia bigelovii Teddybear Cholla Sc -C 3-6' H 3' W FS E M Beautiful, but treacherous

1 Opuntia echinocarpa Silver Cholla Sc -C 3' H & W FS E Spines not sharply barbed

1 Opuntia ellisiana Tiger Tongue Sc -C 4'H 6'W FS E Spineless small pads. Tidy prickly pear.

1 Opuntia englemannii Engleman's Prickly

Pear

Sc -C 15' spread FS E N Most common prickly pear in Arizona

1 Opuntia imbricata Tree Cholla Sc -C 6- 8 'H

10'W

FS E Deep pink flowers followed by green fruit. Shrubby when

young, then treelike.

1 Opuntia leptocaulis Desert Christmas

Cactus

Sc -C 2 - 3' H &

W

FS E Thin stems with bright red fruit

1 Opuntia macrocentra Purple Prickly Pear Sc -C 4'H 6'W FS E N Spines are half white and half dark. 'Tubac' is said to hold

purple color throughtout year.

1 Opuntia santa-rita Santa Rita Prickly

Pear

Sc -C 4'H 6'W FS E N The purple coloration of this prickly pear becomes more

pronounced with drought or cold weather

1 Opuntia spinosior Cane Cholla Sc -C 8' H 4' W FS E N Favored nesting plant for cactus wrens and thrashers.

Magenta flowers, yellow fruit.

2 - 3 Origanum spp. Oregano P 2' H & W FS usually SOME

M

Check with nursery for exposure and hardiness. Many

species, some not hardy in our area.

3 Panicum virgatum

'Prairie Sky'

Prairie Sky Gr 4 - 5'H 2'W FS Warm season grass. Tight growing upright columns of sky

blue foliage.

3 Parthenocissus spp. Creeper Vines V See

remarks

FS , Psh D N SOME

M

Handsome foliage is beautifully colored in autumn. P.

henryana marginal in our zone. Inquire at nursery for size.

2 Pennisetum

setaceum 'Rubrum'

Purple Fountain

Grass

Gr 5' H & W FS , Psh Warm season grass. This attractive pennisetum variety

usually does not self sow. The green variety is invasive.

2 - 3 Penstemon spp. Penstemon P See

remarks

FS , Psh FR Over 250 species, many natives. Check nursery for size,

hardiness and water requirements. If plants require regular

water, then they are not acceptable.

2 - 3 Perovskia Russian Sage P 3-4' H & W FS E FR Trim spent blossoms to extend bloom season. Several

varieties.

3 Phemeranthus

calycinum

Flame Flower P 8-12" H 5'

W

FS Often goes dormant before first frost. Long summer

bloomer.

3 Phlomis russeliana Hardy Jerusalem

Sage

P 36" H 20"

W

FS , Psh Yellow flowers, olive green leaves

3 Phlox tenuifolia Desert Phlox P 2' H & W FS , Psh N Mounded white flowers

1 - 2 Pinus cembroides,

edulis, monophylla

Pinyon Pine T 10 - 25' H FS E FL N Cones contain edible seeds. Pine nuts edible. Slow

growing.



Water


Plant

Type

Mature


Cold

HardyRemarks

2 Pinus eldarica Afghan Pine T 30-80'H 15-

25'W

FS E FL One of best pines for desert

2 Pinus mugo mugo Muhgo Pine S 4-8' H 8-15'

W

FS E FL Group includes compact selections

2 - 3 Pinus pinea Italian Stone Pine T 40-80'H 40-

60'W

FS E FL M Eventually too large for small gardens

2 - 3 Pistacia chinensis Chinese Pistache T 30-60' H &

W

FS D FR Reliable tree for streetside planting, lawn, patio, or garden

Good fall color

3 Potentilla fruticosa Shrubby Cinquefoil S 1-3'H 3-

4'W

Psh in

hottest

climates

D Many varieties, white pink, red and yellow flowers

2 - 3 Prosopis alba or

chilensis

Argentine/Chilean

Mesquite

T 20 - 40' H &

W

FS SE or E in

mild climates

Thornless forms available

2 Prosopis glandulosa Honey Mesquite T 30' H & W FS D Often multi trunked Little pruning needed. Thorniness

variable. Cutting grown 'Maverick' is a superior thornless

form.

2 Prosopis pubescens Screwbean

Mesquite

T or S 30' H & W FS D N Seed pods tightly coiled in a spiral curl. Highly prized in

dried arrangements.

2 Prosopis velutina Velvet Mesquite T 20' H 30' W FS D N Thorniness variable

1 - 2 Psilostrophe spp. Paper Flower P 18" H & W FS E N Dried flowers can be used in arrangements

2 Psorothamnus

scoparia

Broom Dalea S 3' H 4' W FS D N Requires sandy soil. Does not tolerate overwatering.

Attractive erosion control.

2 - 3 Purshia mexicana Cliffrose S 6' H & W FS E FL N Fragrant creamy flowers

2 - 3 Pyracantha spp. Firethorn S See

remarks

FS E FR Many species and hybrids. Check with nursery for sizes.

2 - 3 Quercus buckleyi Buckeye Oak T or S 35' H & W FS D M Trunk branches almost from base

2 - 3 Quercus chrysolepis Canyon Live Oak T 20-60' H&W FS E Handsome round headed or somewhat spreading tree with

smooth whitish bark.

2 Quercus emoryi Emory Oak T 50'H 40'W FS SE N Hollylike leaves. Tolerates a variety of soils. May shed

leaves in spring.

2 - 3 Quercus gambelii Gambel Oak T or S 15-30'H

15'W

FS D N Foliage turns yellow red or orange in fall

2 - 3 Quercus gambellii Gambell Oak T or S 15-30'H

15'W

FS D N Foliage turns yellow red or orange in fall

2 - 3 Quercus

hypoleucoides

Silverleaf Oak T 40' H 35

'W

FS SE N Leaves silvery white and woolly underneath. Sheds leaves

in spring.

2 - 3 Quercus ilex Holly Oak T 30-60' H &

W

FS E Growth can be fairly fast, but varies with soil and water

conditions

2 - 3 Quercus

muehlenbergii

Chinquapin Oak T 40-50'H 50-

60'W

FS D Acorns edible. Leaves turn orange and bronze in fall.

2 Quercus oblongifolia Mexican Blue Oak T 30' H & W FS SE N Gray bark fissured in square plates. Sheds leaves in

spring.



Water


Plant

Type

Mature


Cold

HardyRemarks

2 - 3 Quercus suber Cork Oak T 30-60' H&W FS E Handsome thick corky bark

2 Quercus turbinella Desert Scrub Oak S 10' H & W FS E N Water during dry spells. Can be trained as a small tree.

1 Rhamnus ilicifolia Holly Redberry T or S 15' H & W FS , Psh E No irrigation needed when established. Bulky shrub or

shrubby tree.

2 - 3 Rhus spp. Sumac T or S See

remarks

FS E & D FR SOME

N

Check with nursery for size and hardiness

2 - 3 Rhus virens Evergreen Sumac S 12' H & W FS , Psh E N Use as informal hedge or as background for other plants

2 Robinia

neomexicana

New Mexican Locust T or S 6 - 30' H &

W

FS D FR N Thorns. Wood brittle. Fast growing. Aggressive roots.

Suckers.

3 Rosa banksiae Tombstone Rose S See

remarks

FS E Can grow to humongous size, but can be controlled. Local

experience says moderate water OK

2 - 3 Rosmarinus

officinalis

Rosemary S or Gc See

remarks

FS E Many varieties. Check nursery for size and characteristics.

3 Ruschia calvinia pink Shrubby Ice Plant P 18"H & W FS E Shrublet. Clear pink flowers. Winter foliage is purple.

2 Salazaria mexicana Paperbag Bush S 3' H & W FS D Common name refers to fruit that develops into an inflated

pouch

3 Salvia

chamaedryoides

Blue Sage P 1-2' H 2-3'

W

FS E FR M Deadhead to encourage rebloom

2 - 3 Salvia chinophylla Creeping Sage Gc 4" H - 4' W FS E FR Interesting, attractive plant all year. Small blue flowers.

3 Salvia clevelandii Cleveland Sage S 3-5' H 5-'

W

FS E FR Many hybrids. Remove faded spikes to encourage

rebloom.

3 Salvia dorrii Desert Sage S 1-3' H 2-4'

W

FS E FR Good in dry desert garden

3 Salvia greggii Autumn Sage S 1-4' H & W FS E FR Blooms spring and fall. Many varieties covering wide color

range. Deadhead. Cut back to one half in winter to keep

it full.

3 Salvia hybrid Rasberry Delignt S 3' H & W FS , Psh E FR The deep green foliage has an herbal fragrance when

crushed 3 Salvia microphylla Scarlet Sage S 4' H & 3' W FS E Available in various colors

2 Salvia mohavensis Mojave Sage S or Gc 2' H 2.5' W FS E FR Be careful not to overwater in summer. Fragrant foliage.

3 Salvia muelleri Royal Purple Sage S 2-3'H 4-

6'W

FS E FR Drought tolerant. Spring to fall flowers.

2 Salvia pachyphylla Giant Flowered

Purple Sage

S 3'H 2.5'W FS E FR Blooms all summer. Evergreen silver foliage. Prune &

shape in fall.

2 - 3 Salvia sclarea Clary Sage B or Short-

Lived P

3-4' Flower

Stalks & 2-

3' W

FS FR Short lived. Cutting stems before seeds form produces

rebloom and may prolong plant's life.

3 Sambucus mexicana Blue Elderberry T or S 10-30'H 8-

20'W

FS , Psh E N Drops its foliage during drought



Water


Plant

Type

Mature


Cold

HardyRemarks

2 Santolina spp. Santolina S See

remarks

FS E FR Size varies by species. Cut back yearly before spring

growth.

2 - 3 Scutellaria spp. Prairie Skullcap P See

remarks

FS E SOME

N

Neat mound of lavender blue flowers in late spring. Check

with nursery for size.

3 Scutellaria x hybrid Violet Cloud' P 6" H 15"

W

FS , Psh E Mounding habit. Water regularly first season.

2 - 3 Sedum spp. Sedum/Stonecrop P See

remarks

FS , Psh E FR SOME

N

Many species. Check nursery for sizes. Will not take foot

traffic

2 Sempervivum

tectorum

Hens and Chickens P, Sc 2-5"W

rosettes

Psh E Water only to prevent shriveling

2 - 3 Senecio cineraria Dusty Miller S 2' H & W FS E FR Another dusty miller. Gets legggy unless sheared

occasionally. 1 - 2 Senecio longilobus Threadleaf Grounsel S 3'H 2'W FS E N * Poisonous to livestock. Common on overgrazed

grasslands. Do not overwater.

2 - 3 Senecio viravira Dusty Miller S 4' H & W FS , Psh FR Fuller in full sun. Tip pinch young plants to keep them

compact.

3 Silene laciniata Mexican Catchfly P 15" H & W FS N Summer blooming. Too much water after established will

cause plant to get floppy.

2 Simmondsia

chinensis

Jojoba (Goat Nut) S 3-6' H & W FS E N M Inconspicuous flowers. Can be used as a hedge.

Available in dwarf form.

3 Solidago spp. Goldenrod P 1-3'H 2'W FS , Psh * Four native Solidago species in Cochise County. Does not

cause hay fever.

3 Sophora secundiflora Texas Mountain

Laurel

T or S 15-25'H10-

15'W

FS , Psh E * M Naturally shrubby, but can be trained into a tree

1 - 2 Sphaeralcea spp. Globemallow P 2-4' H 1.5-

3' W

FS D SOME

N

Cut old stems almost to ground in spring. Many colors

available.

2 - 3 Sporobolus airoides Alkali Sacaton Gr 3' H & W FS N Warm season grass. Showy five foot tall, feather like

panicles in summer.

2 - 3 Sporobulos wrightii Big Sacaton Gr 4-5'H & W FS N Warm season grass. Showy 7' tall, feather- like panicles in

summer.

3 Stachys byzantina Lambs Ears P 18" H FS , Psh E Tongue shaped woolly white leaves. Spreads by surface

runners.

3 Stachys spp. Stachys P,S Sizes vary FS , Psh FR Coccinea native in Cochise County. Not fussy about soil

type. Needs good drainage. 2 Stanleya pinnata Prince's Plume P 36"H 18"W FS ut off entire flower spike after blooming to fill out the plant.

Clear yellow flowers.

3 Tagetes lemmonii Mountain Marigold P 3-6' H & W FS E, SE or D N Leaves fragrant when rubbed. Can flower all year. Cut

back after heavy bloom. Can get frost damage. 3 Tecoma stans Yellow Bells S 8' H 5' W FS , Psh E N M Will die back in winter, but will recover quickly

2 - 3 Tetraneuris acaulis Angelita Daisy P 8" H 12' W FS E 12" stems. Daisy yellow flowers nearly all year in mild

winter climates. Cut off faded flowers to prolong bloom.

2 - 3 Tetraneuris scaposa Clustered

Goldflower

P 8"H 12"W FS E 16" stems. Cut off faded flowers to prolong bloom.

3 Teucrium fruticans Bush Germander S 4-8' H & W FS E Blooms almost year round

3 Teucrium x lucidrys Germander P 1' H 2' W FS E Thin and cut back before spring growth begins. T.

prostratum is 4 to 6'' Hi and 3' or more wide.



Water


Plant

Type

Mature


Cold

HardyRemarks

3 Thymophylla spp. Dyssodia (Includes

Dogweeds,Dahlberg

Daisy and Golden

P, some A 4"-1'H 4"-

1.5'W

FS E SOME

N

Mounds. Blooms summer to fall. When plants get ragged,

pull them out. Can easily be started from seed.

3 Thymus lanuginosus Woolly Thyme P 2" H 18" W FS E Low maintenance variety with tiny, felted, gray leaves.

Good for high traffic areas. 3 Thymus spp. Thyme P, Some

grown as A

See

remarks

FS , Psh Many species and varieties. Check water use and size.

Small space groundcovers.

1 - 2 Ungnadia speciosa Mexican Buckeye T or S 15' H & W FS , Psh D * Large shrub, but can be trained into a tree. Summer

irrigational optional. Seeds poisonous.

2 - 3 Vauquelinia

californica

Arizona Rosewood S 20' H 15'W FS E N Good hedge plant. Slow grower at start. Similar to

oleander, but not toxic.

3 Verbascum

olympicum

Mullein P 5' H 3' W FS Soft downy white leaves, bright yellow flowers

2 - 3 Verbena bipinnatifida Verbena Gc, P,

Some

grown as A

8-16"H

18"W

FS FR Eight

native

verbena

s in

Cochise

County

Fast growing ground covers. Attractive in crevices and

hanging baskets. V. bonariensis, V. gooddingii, V..x

hortensis, V. peruviana, also attractive and acceptable.

3 Verbena peruviana Verbena P 1'H 3'W FS E Pink, red, white or purple flowers. Spreads by above

ground runners.

3 Veronica incana Silver Speedwell P 10" H 15"

W

FS , Psh Blooms late spring, but will keep flowering all summer if

deadheaded

3 Veronica orientalis Oriental Speedwell P 8" H 18" W FS Compact mounds of gray green foliage, deep blue flowers

1 - 2 Viguiera stenoloba Skeletonleaf

Goldeneye

P 3' H & W FS , Psh E Differs in both culture & foliage from other desert plants.

Can be utilized in medians, parking lot parking strips, and

planter boxes.

2 - 3 Vitex agnus-castus Chaste Tree T or S 25' H&W FS D Leaves aromatic. Blooms summer to fall. Available with

white, blue or pink flowers.

1 - 2 Vitis californica California Grape V To 30' FS , Psh D Leaves emerge grayish, mature to green, turn red or yellow

in autumn. Several varieties.

2 - 3 Wisteria spp. Wisteria S See

remarks

FS D * Check nursery for exposure and size for different species

and varieties. Control size & shape and encourage bloom

production by pruning and training. W. sinensis will bloom

in FS or in Psh.

3 Xylosma congestum Xylosma T or S 8-10' H & W FS , Psh E or D Single or multi stemmed. Stems zigzag and branches

droop. X. compacta grows slowly to half the size of

species.

1 Yucca baccata Banana Yucca Sc (T OR

S)

3' H 5' W FS E FR N Fruits look like short green bananas

1 Yucca elata Soaptree Yucca Sc (T OR

S)

6-20'H 8-

10'W

FS E FR N Slow grower. 2' flowers on 3' annual spikes. Very

common in grasslands.

1 - 2 Yucca glauca Plain Soapweed Sc 3-4' H & W FS E In the summer green white flowers are borne on narrow

spikes 4' above foliage



Water


Plant

Type

Mature


Cold

HardyRemarks

1 - 2 Yucca rigida Blue Yucca Sc (T OR

S)

12' H 5' W FS E M Dense spikes appear in spring or early summer

1 - 2 Yucca rostrata Beaked Yucca Sc 12' H 9' W FS E Treelike. Trunk covered with soft gray fuzz. Showy

spikes of creamy white flowers.

1 - 2 Yucca schottii Mountain Yucca Sc 6-15' H 3-

4'W

FS , Psh E N Clusters of white flowers from spring to midsummer

2 - 3 Zauchneria

californica latifolia

Hardy Hummingbird

Trumpet/California

Fuschia

P 1.5' H 2' W FS 'Arizonica' is 3' high and has bright orange flowers

'Everett's Choice' is an improved variety

2 - 3 Zexmenia hispida Zexmenia P 2-3' H & W FS , Psh Can lose leaves in cold winters

1 - 2 Zinnia grandiflora Prairie Zinnia A in our

zone

4"H 15"W FS N Late summer bloomer. Can be difficult to grow.


SIERRA VISTA PLANT LIST - INTRODUCTION · If you water more frequently for shorter periods of time,...

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Transcript of SIERRA VISTA PLANT LIST - INTRODUCTION · If you water more frequently for shorter periods of time,...